After being self taught for years I had super high hopes going into design school and Platt has gone so far beyond my expectations... I felt inspired the entire way through the program and continue to be inspired as I work in the real world with their support. The staff at Platt college is highly skilled and super supportive of everything we do and teachers are always willing to do what it takes to make sure you get what you want out of a class. Because of the small class sizes students have the opportunity to ask as many questions as they want and spend a good amount of one on one time with teachers which isn't as much of an opportunity when you go to bigger schools. Today I continue to work with an awesome team of Platt Alumni and teachers on a regular basis and thanks to Platt I have realized my dream career and make a solid living doing what I love.

Michael Fugoso

Graduation Date: 2014

Degree/Diploma: AAS Graphic Design/ BS Web Design

Company: Bee International

Title: Graphic Designer

Going into my 30's and hating my direction in life, Platt College allowed me to perform a quick and seamless career change where I now love what I do, and get paid for it. Definitely one of the best life decisions I've made.

Joel Morillo

Title: Motion Graphics Designer and Field Producer at Passage Productions

Don’t dismiss or forget the other skills you pick up at Platt. The VFX was what got me in the door but it was my knowledge of print design and video production that have allowed me to stay on board even after the completion of our documentary Cosplay Dreams 3D. Since the wrap up of the VFX I’ve been on several location shoots, designed a number of ads for both print and web, assisted with the motion graphics for an infomercial and I just recently started redesigning the website for the company. Can’t stress enough how important it is to be versatile as an artist in today’s market.

Amber Fritz

Graduation Date: April 2014

Program: A.A.S Graphic Design / B.S. Media Arts

Company: Gaslamp Media, Inc.

Title: Front-end Web Developer

I chose Platt to make a career change and a big change to my life. I was given so much encouragement from the teachers, especially when things got rough working a full-time job as well as fulfilling school obligations. I found something that I love to do and was nudged in the right direction to become successful at it. I am extremely thankful for finding a great place to work even before I graduated with the help of career services. I'm very happy with my experience at Platt!

Jesus De Santiago Jr.

" I was able to be transformed into a completely different person thanks to the knowledge that was provided by the awesome staff. I was able to be part of such an awesome creative family that pushed me in a positive way every project. To be able to be called a designer by going through Platt was a great stepping stone in my career and now I work for an amazing digital publishing company. Thank you Platt, thank you professors, thank you classmates for helping me be the professional I am today."

Thomas Higdon

Graduation Date: October 2013

Degree/Diploma: B.S. Multimedia / 3D Animation

Company: The San Diego Padres Baseball Club/ Freelance Animator

Title: Coordinator, Creative Services

Platt taught me the tools necessary to become successful in the field I wanted to pursue. The teachers were knowledgable and always lent a helping hand both while in school, and after I had graduated. I will always credit Platt for building the launch pad that will propel me to reach my future goals of becoming an animator for feature film.

Felix Honda

Graduation Date: 2013

Program: B.S. Multimedia / 3D Animation

Company: Legend3D

Title: Junior Depth Artist

Joan Olonan

Graduation Date: 2013

Degree/Diploma: AAS in Graphic Design

Company: SBHIS/INSURUS

Title: Marketing Manager

I have a passion for design and Platt gave me the opportunity to expand my knowledge for it. It was definitely a great stepping stone in my career. They helped me to land a job as a graphic designer before I even graduated and today I am a marketing manager for the same company. Platt's smaller classes provides a more personal learning and any questions I had they were able to answer them. Platt definitely exceeded my expectations of what a design college should be. I would definitely recommend this school to anyone else interested in multimedia design.

Jarod Octon

Graduation Date: 2012

Program: B.S. Degree Media Arts / Visual Effects & Compositing

Company: Touch This Media

Title: Art Director

Platt College San Diego is where I was able to sharpen my craft, before gaining a rewarding professional career as a designer. There's a great sense of community there, where creatives are definitely welcomed. Even after I graduated, the staff was more than happy to help provide further guidance and accessible technology for my own personal projects. All of the instructors there are very talented and insightful. In addition, the entire staff is always available for conversation, much unlike most overpopulated universities where the students have to speak with an aid rather than the actual professor. Don't sleep on it, Platt is a wonderful institution.

Krystiana Brzuza-Hardisty

Graduation Date: 2012

Program: B.S. Degree Media Arts

Company: Sonic Boom Wellness

Title: Graphic Design Specialist

Nick Ryan

Graduation Date: 2012

Program: B.S. Multimedia / Web Design

Company: Awthentik Design Group

Title: Artist / Graphic Designer

Carrie Ann Caranci

Graduation Date: 2012

Program: B.S. Multimedia / 3D Animation

Company: Independent Contractor

Title: Graphic Designer

Andrew Duenas

Graduated: 2011

Place of Employment: UCSD

Job Title: Videographer/Editor

Jeanette Ortiz

Graduated: 2011

Place of Employment: Pixel Bytes Media LLC

Job Title: Co-Founder / Drupal Developer

Amber Bouley

Graduated: 2010

Program: Bachelors of Science in Media Arts With an Emphasis on 3D Animation

Place of Employment: Disneyland Resort

Job Title: Wonderground Sketch Artist

My years at Platt were some of the most important in my life. Platt helped me build the foundation that set me on the path of a career I truly love. Not everyone can say that they love their career. But Platt helped nurture a passion inside me and helped it grow into the skills I needed to succeed. Platt gave me knowledge, support, friends, and family. And I will always remember my time as a Platt Student.

THANKS FOR TAKING THE TIME TO SPEAK WITH US TODAY EUGENE, SO LET’S START OFF WITH HOW’S EVERYTHING SINCE WORKING ON AVATAR? DID YOU GUYS GET A LOT OF PRAISE AND SOME CONTRACTS FOR FUTURE PROJECTS OUT OF THAT?

Once Avatar was over, there was a small break of about a month before we ramped back up for multiple feature films. The VFX house I work at would agree that working on Avatar is great for business.

CAN YOU GIVE US SOME BACKGROUND ABOUT YOURSELF, LIKE HOW YOU BROKE INTO THE INDUSTRY AND WHAT WERE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES?

For starters, I am a native San Diegan who loves the Chargers, super sad about LT. After a comment by my sister, I checked out Platt and totally dug the environment. I broke into the industry by becoming an awesome video game tester. A tip by a peer at Platt pointed me in the direction of game testing for Sony Computer Entertainment America San Diego in Sorrento Mesa. I did that for a couple of months then moved across the street to the development division. After a referral from a classmate, I interviewed for an internship that led to working with veterans from the movie business. Later on, they called me up to Los Angeles for my first Visual Effects job. There were some challenges early on with contract work ending and having months of down time. I recommend the every artist to save their dough after their first gig. That job can be gone at any moment if you’re a contractor. Life as a freelancer can be tough.

SOUNDS LIKE YOU HAD ONE CRAZY JOURNEY… WOULD YOU RECOMMEND INTERNSHIPS TO EVERYONE THAT’S TRYING TO BREAK INTO THE INDUSTRY?

It has been a crazy journey indeed. I do recommend internships for anyone who is able. Three months is the usual length, and at the end you might get a contract. If not, you’ve gained three months of “on the job” experience that can go a long way in your next job interview. Platt played a big role in my career as well, mostly due to people I went to class with. It was my network of friends that threw me leads for gigs here and there. Also Platt’s curriculum prepared me for what was to come.

BETWEEN MAKING MOVIE MAGIC AND MAKING GAMES, WHICH DO YOU PREFER?

Maya is such a beautiful software package. With it, you can build video games, make short films, animate South Park, or create cinema magic. In my experience, there’s more prestige in cinema. The gaming industry is more like a vacation from the movie industry. At the moment, I prefer working in cinema.

I TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU ON MAYA BEING THE FOUNDATION. WHAT OTHER SOFTWARE KNOWLEDGE WOULD YOU SAY IS ESSENTIAL FOR SOMEONE TRYING TO GET INTO 3D ART?

It depends on the discipline, I guess. If you’re a modeler, you better know Photoshop and know it well. Zbrush, Vue, and Mudbox are definite pluses. Maybe some knowledge of UV unwrap software will come in handy. For animators, I’ve seen Motion Builder being used, but usually it’s just Maya animation. realFlow for dynamics people goes a long way. Also, for any discipline, it’s good to know how to slap a composite together either in After Effects, Shake, or any available composite program.

SO JUST OUT OF CURIOSITY, WALK ME THROUGH YOUR TYPICAL DAY AT THE OFFICE WHEN YOU’RE WORKING ON A PROJECT…

Before I even get to the office, I know exactly what I’m going to tackle that first few hours. I work in a room with 6 other artists. There is never a dull moment in there. During work, I have a task list that I try to get done. Sometimes things come up, also known as “fires”, and someone has to “put them out”. Sometimes, they’re small “fires”, other times they can be big. They can happen at any moment and are to be avoided! Usually I’ll just joke with the guys as I get work done as the day goes on. Most studios will buy lunches and dinners for the artists during projects that run long. So throughout the day we’ll take breaks, chill, and eat.

AS A CHARACTER ANIMATOR, ARE YOU GIVEN A LOT OF FREEDOM AND CREATIVITY WITH YOUR WORK, OR ARE SOME THINGS MORE STRICT?

Character animators are at the mercy of the client. Whatever the client wants is what the animation supervisor is going to tell you to do. For the most part, there is little “freedom” for animators, Motion Capture (mocap) being one of them. Some projects are mocap driven, which means animators might be cleaning up motion capture. Also, it can be a real bummer when the client doesn’t like what you like.

For any beginning artist, understand that there will be a lot of on-the-job training and learning. On your first job, your employer knows you’re fresh out of college and knows what to expect.

Thanks again for your time Eugene, everyone here at Platt is proud to see your success and we’re looking forward to what else you pull out from the magician’s hat!

FAVIAN JUDKINS

Graduation Date: 2005

Program: B.S. Degree in Media Arts

Company: Parity Studios – Icon Group Intl.

Company Type: Animation

Title: 3D Animator – Technical Director

DARRIN LAURITZEN

Graduation Date: 2005

Program: B.S. Degree in Media Arts

Company: KSWB-TV Channel 5/69

Company Type: Broadcast Television

Title: Creative Services

DAVE SHEPARD

Graduation Date: 2005

Program: B.S. Degree in Media Arts

Company: Digital-Telepathy

Company Type: Agency+

Title: Web UI Developer

CHARLES PARK

Graduation Date: 2005

Program: B.S. Degree in Media Arts

Company: San Diego City Beat Magazine

Company Type: Publication

Title: Production Manager

JASUN GILES

Graduation Date: 2004

Program: B.S. in Media Arts

Company: Sony Pictures ImageWorks

Company Type: Motion Pictures

Title: Technical Animator/Mocap

“Platt College was a great experience! The teachers were awesome and everything was hands on. The Bachelor of Media Arts Degree I earned gave me the understanding and opportunity to get my foot in the door at some pretty amazing animation companies.

Since graduating Platt College, I have worked on many different movie projects, such as: Beowulf and Monster House. And my video game projects include Conan and Timeshift.

Being a Technical Animator/MoCap Artist, I am blessed to work with many Hollywood stars. But, the most rewarding is the design teams I work with day after day.

I would personally like to thank all the teachers and new friends I have met along the way at Platt College. My eyes have been opened to a different world.”

The Anglo-Saxon poem “Beowulf” is often credited as one of the touchstones of old English literature with its enduring tale of the warrior-hero Beowulf, the monster Grendel, and Grendel’s dangerous and vengeful mother. Director Robert Zemeckis (Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Forrest Gump) is viewed as somewhat of a legend himself for his technological innovations in cinema. Now, the centuries-old material comes face-to-face with the latest motion-capture technology in Zemeckis’s 3D computer-generated film Beowulf.

2004 B.S. in Media Arts graduate Jasun Giles (technical animator/mocap artist: Sony Pictures ImageWorks) had worked hard on the Paramount Pictures release Beowulf and is busy on his next project: Foodfight for House of Moves.

MORGAN SELF

DREW STAUFFER

Graduation Date: 2003

Program: B.S. Degree in Media Arts

Company: Jackson Marketing Group

Company Type: Marketing

Title: Interactive Designer / SEO

In my final year at Platt, I was added to the National Dean’s List honoring high-achieving college students nationwide. Immediately after graduating, I accepted a job at Einstein Industries designing and developing websites for some of the most acclaimed doctors and lawyers in the country. I was employed for three years while maintaining 3 personal websites: www.drewstauffer.com,www.alibiproductions.com and www.wildfireproductions.net. Freelance clients for these successful personal sites include The Hyatt, world-renowned photographer Brian Bielmann, and Allied Recycling, Inc.

My freelance sites have been popular enough to put me in the limelight and an advertising and marketing company in Greenville, SC contacted me. After a few months of negotiations and travels I finally accepted a position at Jackson-Dawson as an Interactive Designer. A nationally-recognized marketing firm, Jackson Marketing Groups clients include BMW, Michelin, Alemite, and many other well-known brands.

I have been living in Greenville for the past month and have started a new Search Engine Optimization department at Jackson Marketing Group in addition to my position as an Interactive Designer.

10 years experience in both in-house and agency environments. Well versed in all aspects of conceptual thinking, creative direction, layout and design for both print and web. I have managed projects in multi-channel environments, ensuring brand strategy paralleled design concepts.

Having worked in fast paced environments, I am comfortable managing multiple projects and design teams. A leader and team player dedicated to excellence in communication, collaboration and partnerships.

SPECIALTIES

Interactive, print, and direct advertising. Building fully-integrated digital brand experiences across all mediums. Experience managing creative teams from concept through completion of projects. Work well in both team and solo environments.

VICKI GORDON

Graduation Date: 1998

Program: Graphic Design Diploma

Company: Qualcomm – QWBS Marketing

Company Type: Telecommunications

Title: Senior Graphic Designer

MATTIA MONTUORO

Graduation Date: 1998

Program: Bachelor of Media Arts

Company: Washington Post/Local 6 News

Company Type: Broadcast

Title: Senior Graphic Designer/Animator

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PROJECTS THAT YOU’VE COMPLETED IN YOUR CAREER AND WHY?

I have worked on several cool projects throughout my career. My favorite project was creating the seasonal in-game graphics for the San Francisco Giants. I was art director and producer of the graphics for the large video boards within the ballpark. The Giants often flew me to San Francisco for photo shoots with the players and primary Giant staff to create the openings, bumpers and player screens.

I just completed, two 5-minute videos, to demonstrate how a children’s card game is played. The client was very pleased with the work. Their comment was “the production value of what I’m seeing is phenomenal!”

WHAT WAS YOUR GREATEST SUCCESS?

Well, winning two Emmy Awards was a great honor however knowing that a client is happy and extremely satisfied is more rewarding than any award.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR KEY (OR KEYS) TO SUCCESS?

Understanding to be a good designer you need to have not only the design skills but you also need great communication skills/values. Part of communication is listening. ALWAYS listen to the client. If you listen to what your client is trying to accomplish you will save yourself an incredible amount of time during production.

Secondly, don’t take your job personally. Take criticism as way to grow and not as an attack or insult. It is just business.

ANY ADVISE FOR STUDENTS OF PCSD?

Never stop learning and updating your skill set. New techniques will expand your vision and knowledge.

BRIAN TERHORST

Graduation Date: 1997

Program: Multimedia / Animation DiplomA

Company: Revolt In Style Magazine

Company Type: Publication

Title: Owner/Publisher

MORGAN BONAR

Graduation Date: 1996

Program: Multimedia / Animation Design Diploma

Company: Sony Online Entertainment

Company Type: Game & Entertainment

Title: Lead – Web Development

HAVE YOU MET ANY CELEBRITIES IN YOUR LINE OF WORK?

When Los Angeles was making a bid for a team (when are they not) my previous company and I were working on a presentation to the City Counsel and NFL owners. I was able to chat with Al Davis (Oakland Raiders Owner) for awhile.

ANY ADVISE FOR STUDENTS COMING OUT OF PLATT COLLEGE SAN DIEGO?

Stay on top of your technological skills. It is a continuing education type of field. Never become complacent with your skills.

ROBERT MCFARLANE

Graduation Date: 1996

Program: A.A.S. Degree in Multimedia / Animation Design

Company: Pint, Inc. (www.pint.com)

Company Type: Web Development Firm

Title: Creative Director / Partner

HOW DID YOU END UP IN YOUR CURRENT POSITION?

Back in 1995, while still attending PCSD, I was hired by Thomas Powell (Founder of Pint, Inc.) to do some design and illustration work. Over time my roll at Pint, Inc. grew from a Graphic Designer to Creative Director and now I am a Partner.

WHO IS YOUR MOST VISIBLE CLIENT?

For over six years, PINT, Inc. has been fortunate enough to work with the Central Garden & Pet Company (www.central.com). Central Garden & Pet have multiple consumer brands on the pet and garden side including Nylabone, TFH, Kaytee, Super Pet, Pennington Seed, and many more. Their products are found in stores such as Petco, PetSmart, True Value, and Home Depot.

ANYTHING PARTICULARLY “COOL” ABOUT THE CENTRAL GARDEN & PET WEB SITE?

One of the coolest parts of this project is that there are so many sites. While the corporate site gets to remain, well, corporate, the different brands can take on their own personalities. Super Pet (www.superpetusa.com) is primarily for kids and uses a lot of bright colors with green-screened video of animals interacting with the layout. Zilla used some animal animation as well but was much more reptilian with snakes slithering across the page. When you are talking about everything from cats and dogs, to tropical fish and reptiles, to birds and small animals, it gives you a lot of different things to try out. I think my dog just liked the fact that she got a bunch of free toys and treats!

WHAT WAS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE WITH THE CENTRAL GARDEN & PET PROJECT?

It’s probably the same thing that made the project so much fun, the number of different sites. Trying to give all of the different brands their own unique style, content and layout, while having them all tied to the same back-end systems with the same functionality. Meeting the business goals while giving all the different brand managers what they wanted visually is always a challenge.

ANY ADVISE FOR STUDENTS OF PCSD?

While the students are still in school they should visit their career services department. They can help the student find internships, freelance work or a job. Even if the internship or freelance work does not pay, it will pay them back two-fold. All employers have seen the same class projects before. Professional projects in a student’s portfolio are invaluable. It shows dedication and the ability to work outside the school environment. Besides, some internships or freelance work turn into a job position for the student. It is their foot-in-the-door. That is what happened to me.

ANDREI BOORIAKIN

Graduation Date: 1995

Program: Multimedia / Animation Design Diploma

Company: Sony Computer Entertainment America

Company Type: Video Game Developer

Title: Senior Manager, Art Development

ANDRE PADILLA

Graduation Date: 1995

Program: Multimedia / Animation Design Diploma

Company: Sony Online Entertainment

Company Type: Online Video Games

Title: AV Producer

HAVE YOU MET ANY CELEBRITIES IN YOUR TRAVELS FOR WORK?

Growing up in San Diego, I have always been a huge San Diego Padres fan. So, when I was working on a San Diego Padres project I met 12-time All-Star player David Winfield. He was a completely nice guy.

ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR THE CURRENT STUDENTS AT PLATT COLLEGE SAN DIEGO?

Feel passionate about your career and projects. Do what you love. This is not an industry that you just fall into because you have to. It is the type of career that you consider as your life, not a job.

BRIAN PATIENCE

Graduation Date: 1995

Program: B.S. Media Arts

Company: Trion Worlds, Inc.

Company Type: Motion Picture and Film

Title: Senior AV Producer

WHAT PROJECTS HAVE YOU WORKED ON FOR TRION WORLD?

I mostly work on the in-game Cinematics, tutorials and mission videos. I also create marketing videos for Rift, End of Nations and Defiance.

ANYTHING PARTICULARLY “COOL” ABOUT THE JOB?

I get paid! Besides money, I have the ability to be creative and produce high-end Cinematics and cut scenes for video games.

HAVE YOU MET ANY CELEBRITIES AS A RESULT OF YOUR WORK?

ANY ADVISE FOR STUDENTS OF PCSD?

It is important to get along with everyone you work with. You may run into them again.
Secondly, Internships, internships, internships.
Lastly, never stop learning.

DAVID SCHORN

Graduation Date: 1995

Program: Bachelor of Science Degree: Media Arts

Company: Neversoft & Sony Computer Entertainment America

Company Type: Video Game developer, Publisher and distributor

Title: Senior UI Artist

WHAT GAME TITLES HAVE YOU WORKED ON FOR SONY COMPUTER ENTERTAINMENT AMERICA AND NEVERSOFT?

The games that the San Diego branch of SCEA mainly developed were the NBA and MLB franchises for PS2, PS3 and PSP consoles. I have been working on the NBA franchise since 2001. In 2006, we changed the franchise name for the NBA product from NBA ShootOut to NBA. My next project is for Activision. If I tell you what it is I will have to kill you.

Here is a list of the specific game titles I worked on:

Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock & Guitar Hero 5

Band Hero

NBA: ′09 The Inside (PSP & PS3)

NBA: ′07-′08 (PS3)

NBA: ′06-′08 (PSP, PS2)

NBA: ShootOut 2001-2005 (PS2)

WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENT LIKE AT NEVERSOFT ENTERTAINMENT?

It is an awesome work environment with great people. There are free drinks, as well as, free lunch Monday thru Thursday. Most Friday′s everyone takes a couple of hours to play test the current title we are working on. While designing the UI for Guitar Hero we often saturated ourselves with Rock and Roll music, imagery and movies. The motto at Neversoft is “work hard, play hard, and party hard.”

HAVE YOU MET ANY CELEBRITIES AS A RESULT OF YOUR WORK?

Plenty!!! When I was working for Sony Computer Entertainment America, I attended the NBA Shoot Out Celebrity Tournament event and hung out with Snoop Dogg and various celebrities such as: Tia Carrera, Trey Parker, Matt Stone (South Park), Vin Diesel, Wilder Valderrama, and Danny Masterson (That 70′s Show). I also met Tommy Lee (Motley Crue) at the E3 Sony party.

Working at Neversoft we meet all sorts of famous musicians too. I experienced No Doubt perform and met Taylor Swift while they were in the studio for their Motion Capture sessions for Band Hero. I also got to see a private concert featuring Soundgarden for the release party of Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock.

ANY ADVISE FOR STUDENTS OF PLATT COLLEGE SAN DIEGO?

Learn as much as you can, be adaptable, be open to change and continue to expand upon your skills away from school. Also, network and learn from your fellow classmates is a key element in furthering your skills and your overall future.

GINA VON DER KRET

Graduation Date: 1995

Program: Multimedia / Animation Design Diploma

Company: LJG Partners, Inc.

Company Type: Media Arts

Title: Vice President/Director of User Experience

Originally graduated with an A.A.S. Degree in Multimedia / Animation in 1994.